How to Plan Your Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon Half Day Tour

If you are visiting Athens, make sure you don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit the beautiful Cape Sounion and the ancient Temple of Poseidon. In this how-to guide, we will show you how to plan your half-day tour to this breathtaking location.

Experience

First things first, let’s talk about the experience you can expect from this tour. The tour takes place over three hours, with one hour dedicated to exploring the Temple of Poseidon and the rest of the time spent at Cape Sounion. The tour includes pick up from your hotel in Athens and a knowledgeable tour guide.

Itinerary

Here is the itinerary for the tour:

• Scenic drive along the picturesque south coast of Attica
• Swim at one of Greece’s most beautiful beaches
• Visit the ancient Temple of Poseidon at the Cape Sounion
• Learn from an experienced local guide about the history of Cape Sounion
• See the sun setting into the Aegean Sea

Highlights

The highlights of this tour include:

• Stunning views of the coastal region of Attica
• Opportunity to swim at one of Greece’s most beautiful beaches
• Chance to visit the ancient Temple of Poseidon
• Insightful commentary from a knowledgeable local guide
• Breathtaking views of the sunset over the Aegean Sea

Full Description

The tour begins with a scenic drive along the south coast of Attica. During the journey, you will be able to see breathtaking views of the coastline and crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea. After a short drive, the tour stops at one of Greece’s most beautiful beaches, where you can take a refreshing dip in the sea. After a relaxing swim, the tour continues to the main stop – the ancient Temple of Poseidon. Located at the southern tip of the Attica Peninsula, the Temple of Poseidon dates back to the 5th century BC and is considered one of the most important temples in Greece. Your knowledgeable tour guide will provide you with insightful commentary about the temple’s history, myths, and legends. After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore the ruins of the temple and take in the stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Finally, the tour ends with a beautiful sunset at Cape Sounion, which is a truly unforgettable experience.

Inclusions

The following are included in the tour:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Transportation in an air-conditioned minivan
• English-speaking driver
• Tour leader
• Local taxes
• Entrance fees (5 euros November-March / 10 Euros April-October)

Booking

To book the tour, please visit the tour page. Remember, this is a must-do tour for anyone visiting Athens, and we highly recommend it!

Frequently Asked Questions About Athens, Greece

1. What is Athens best known for?

Athens is the capital city of Greece and is known for its rich history and ancient landmarks, like the Acropolis of Athens, the Parthenon, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Ancient Agora of Athens. It is also famous for being the birthplace of democracy and for its literature, philosophy, and art. Additionally, Athens is known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine.

2. What is the best time of year to visit Athens?

The best time to visit Athens is during shoulder season (April-June, September-November) when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. Summers in Athens can be hot and crowded, and many locals leave the city during August.

3. What is the currency used in Athens, Greece?

Greece uses the Euro (€) as its currency, which is also the official currency of most European Union countries.

4. Where is the best place to stay in Athens?

The best area to stay in Athens is around the historic center of the city, near the Acropolis and the old town of Plaka. This area is ideal for sightseeing, as many landmarks are within walking distance.

5. How do I get around Athens?

Athens has an extensive public transportation system that includes metro, buses, and trams. Metro trains are the best option for getting around the city quickly and conveniently. Taxis are also widely available but can be more expensive than using public transportation.

6. What are some must-try foods in Athens?

Athens has a rich culinary culture, and some must-try foods include:

• Gyros or Souvlaki – Greek-style wraps with marinated meat, vegetables, and tzatziki sauce
• Moussaka – A baked casserole made of eggplant, minced meat, and bechamel sauce
• Dolmades – Stuffed grape leaves with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat
• Tzatziki – A dip made of yogurt, cucumber, and garlic, often served with bread or as a side dish
• Feta Cheese – A tangy and salty cheese that is a staple in Greek cuisine
• Baklava – A sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts and honey syrup

7. What are some popular tourist attractions in Athens?

Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Athens include:

• The Acropolis of Athens and the Parthenon
• The National Archaeological Museum of Athens
• The Ancient Agora of Athens and the Temple of Hephaestus
• The Temple of Olympian Zeus
• The Panathenaic Stadium
• The Plaka Old Town and Monastiraki Flea Market
• The Mount Lycabettus
• The National Garden of Athens

8. What should I wear when visiting Athens?

It is recommended to dress smart-casual when visiting Athens, especially when visiting landmarks like the Acropolis or the National Archaeological Museum. It is considered respectful to cover up shoulders and knees in religious sites. In general, Athens is a fairly fashion-conscious city, and locals are often dressed up.

9. Is Athens a safe city to visit?

Athens is generally a safe city to visit, although like in any big city, tourists should exercise caution, especially at night and in crowded areas. It is recommended to keep valuables out of sight and avoid carrying large sums of cash, as pickpocketing can occur in areas with high foot traffic.

10. What is the weather like in Athens?

The weather in Athens is typical Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild, rainy winters. Summers can be very hot, with temperatures sometimes reaching over 95°F (35°C). Winters are mild, with temperatures ranging between 46°F (8°C) and 59°F (15°C).

11. Do I need a visa to visit Athens?

Visitors from most countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, can enter Greece without a visa for up to 90 days. If you plan on staying longer than 90 days, you will need a visa. It is always best to check the latest visa requirements before traveling.

12. What language is spoken in Athens?

The official language of Greece is Greek, and this is also the most common language spoken in Athens. However, many locals speak English, especially in touristy areas, so visitors should be able to communicate effectively.

13. Can I use credit cards in Athens?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Athens, especially in major tourist areas. Small businesses and street vendors may prefer cash, so it is always best to carry some Euros on hand.

14. Can I drink tap water in Athens?

Tap water in Athens is generally safe to drink, although due to the high mineral content, it is recommended to filter or boil it before drinking. Bottled water is widely available in Athens and is also inexpensive.

15. What is the tipping etiquette in Athens?

Tipping is not a mandatory practice in Athens, although it is appreciated for good service. It is common to round up the bill in restaurants and to leave a small gratuity for cab drivers and hotel staff.

16. Can I bring pets to Athens?

You can bring pets to Athens, although there are certain restrictions and requirements that must be met. It is recommended to check with your airline and the Greek authorities regarding pet travel requirements and regulations.

17. What is the time zone in Athens?

Athens is in the Eastern European Time zone, which is UTC +2 hours.

18. What is the dialing code for Athens?

The dialing code for Greece is +30, and the city code for Athens is 210.

19. What is the emergency number in Athens?

The emergency number in Greece is 112, which connects to police, ambulance, and fire services.

20. Where can I exchange currency in Athens?

Currency exchange offices and banks are widespread in Athens, especially in tourist areas. Many ATMs also accept foreign debit and credit cards.

Book Your Tour Now

Athens is a fascinating city with a unique history and culture. It offers visitors a wealth of attractions, including ancient landmarks, world-class museums, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. By following these tips and guidelines, visitors can make the most out of their trip to Athens and create unforgettable memories.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Athens

Are you planning a trip to Athens, Greece, and wondering what to see and do? This city is rich in history, culture, and architecture, and there are plenty of things to keep you busy during your stay. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Athens.

1. Visit the Acropolis

The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city. It’s home to several ancient buildings, including the famous Parthenon temple, which was dedicated to the goddess Athena. The Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of Athens’ top sights. To fully enjoy your visit, it’s recommended to book your tickets in advance as the lines can be quite long. You can also opt for a guided tour to learn more about the history behind this renowned landmark.

2. Explore the Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora was the heart of Athens’ political and social life in ancient times. It’s a vast archaeological site that includes the remains of buildings such as the Stoa of Attalos and the Temple of Hephaestus. Take your time to explore the Agora and imagine what it must have been like to live there during the golden age of Athens. You can also visit the museum on site and see some of the artifacts that were discovered during the excavations.

3. Walk around Monastiraki

Monastiraki is a vibrant neighborhood in Athens that’s known for its buzzing flea market. It’s a great place to wander around and explore the narrow streets full of shops and street vendors selling all kinds of goods, from souvenirs to vintage clothing. Don’t miss the chance to try some street food while you’re there, such as a savory bougatsa pastry or a sweet loukoumades donut.

4. Visit the National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is one of the largest museums in Greece and houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Greek history and learn more about the country’s rich cultural heritage. Some of the highlights of the museum include the famous Mask of Agamemnon, the frescoes from Akrotiri on Santorini, and the Antikythera mechanism – a complex ancient astronomical calculator.

5. Go for a stroll in Plaka

Plaka is one of Athens’ oldest neighborhoods and is known for its picturesque streets and traditional Greek architecture. It’s a great place to go for a stroll and soak up the atmosphere, especially in the evening when the streets come alive with live music and street performers. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes in Plaka where you can enjoy some traditional Greek cuisine while soaking up the local ambiance.

6. Take a day trip to the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion

Located about an hour’s drive from Athens, the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion is a must-see attraction for any history buff. The temple was built in the 5th century BC and is dedicated to the god of the sea, Poseidon. The temple is situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the Aegean Sea, and the sunset views from the site are simply breathtaking. You can get there by car, bus, or boat and opt for a guided tour to learn more about the temple’s history.

7. Visit the Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum is one of Athens’ premier art museums and houses a vast collection of Greek art and artifacts. It’s a great place to learn more about contemporary Greek art and design, as well as the country’s ancient cultural heritage. The museum is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building and includes several galleries dedicated to different periods of Greek history. It’s a great place to spend a few hours if you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

8. Watch a performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is an ancient amphitheater located on the slopes of the Acropolis. It’s a stunning venue that’s still used for musical and theatrical performances today. Attending a performance at the Odeon is a unique cultural experience that’s not to be missed. During the summer months, the Athens and Epidaurus Festival hosts a variety of events at the theater, including music, dance, and theater productions.

Book Your Tour Now

There are plenty of things to see and do in Athens, Greece, and this guide is just the tip of the iceberg. From ancient landmarks to bustling neighborhoods and cultural institutions, Athens is a city that’s sure to captivate and inspire any traveler. Be sure to plan ahead and book your tickets in advance to make the most of your visit.