Athens: Cape Sounion & Poseidon Temple Sunset Half-Day Trip
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Reservations
History
Cape Sounion has guarded the Aegean since the 5th century BC, crowned by the Temple of Poseidon—sailors’ protector and rival to Athena’s shrine. Here, King Aegeus leapt into the sea, naming it forever.
Nearby, the ancient Theater of Thorikos, carved into a hillside by 500 BC, hosted dramas centuries before the Parthenon rose. Together, these sites blend myth, maritime power, and the world’s oldest theatrical legacy.
Highlights
- Explore the world’s oldest theater at ancient Thorikos
- Wander the cliff-edge Temple of Poseidon with 2 hours of free time
- Witness a fiery Aegean sunset from Sounion’s dramatic promontory
- Learn myths and history via in-app audio guide (English)
- Travel in comfort with live archaeologist guide and onboard Wi-Fi
Full Description
Escape Athens for a magical sunset journey along the Attic coast. After a scenic drive, step into the 2,500-year-old Theater of Thorikos—humanity’s first stage—overlooking silver mines and lavender fields.
Continue to Cape Sounion, where marble columns of Poseidon’s temple frame endless turquoise. With 2 hours to roam, photograph, and reflect, watch the sun melt into the sea in golden splendor.
Return relaxed, enriched by audio tales of gods and heroes, and panoramic views that inspired Homer and Byron alike.
Why Choose This Experience?
This perfectly timed sunset trip blends two rare ancient sites with natural drama—no crowds, no rush. Your archaeologist guide shares passion and expertise, while the audio app adds depth on your own pace.
Ideal for photographers, history lovers, or anyone craving romance and mythology in under 6 hours. With central drop-off and free admission for youth, it’s accessible, authentic, and unforgettable.
What’s Included
- Round-trip air-conditioned bus with professional driver
- Live English-speaking archaeologist guide
- In-app audio guide (English) for Temple of Poseidon
- Wi-Fi and USB charging onboard
- 35-minute stop at ancient Theater of Thorikos
- 2 hours free time at Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon
- Sunset viewing from optimal cliffside points
- Digital map and live bus tracking
- Free entry for EU under 25 / non-EU under 18 (with ID)
- Reduced entry for EU seniors 65+ (Oct–May only)
Itinerary
- Depart from Halandri Metro Station
- Bus/coach along coastal road (40 minutes)
- Thorikos: ancient theater and mines (35 minutes)
- Continue by bus/coach (25 minutes)
- Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon: free time, audio tour, sunset (2 hours)
- Return bus/coach to Athens (1.5 hours)
- Drop-off at Syntagma Square
Pricing
From $23 per person
Meeting Point
Outside Halandri Metro Station (Blue Line) – take exit “To Vrilissia.” Look for the guide with signage. Arrive 10 minutes early.
How to get there
- Metro: Line 3 (blue) to “Halandri” → exit “To Vrilissia”
- From Syntagma: 20-minute metro ride
- Taxi: Request “Halandri Metro Station, Vrilissia exit”
- Bus: Lines A5, B5, 460 to Halandri
Good to Know
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes (gravel and marble paths)
- Light jacket (windy at cape, cooler evenings)
- Charged smartphone and earphones (for audio guide)
- Camera (sunset photography)
- ID/passport (for free/reduced entry)
Know before you go
- Temple entry €10 (not included) – free for EU under 25 / non-EU under 18
- Reduced €5 for EU seniors 65+ only Oct–May
- No reduced tickets June–October
- Bring earphones for audio guide (app downloaded via Wi-Fi)
- Tour runs rain or shine – ponchos if needed
Reviews
- A dreamy half-day escape. Angelina’s passion for mythology made every stone speak. The audio guide at Poseidon was brilliant!
- Angelina brought energy and deep knowledge. Thorikos was a hidden gem, and the sunset? Unforgettable. Perfect pacing.
- Vivian’s facts flowed from bus to temple. October sunset was pure fire over the sea—best views in Greece!
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
Is the Temple of Poseidon entry fee included?
No, the €10 entrance fee is not included and must be paid in cash or card on-site. However, free admission applies to EU citizens under 25 and non-EU under 18 with valid ID. EU seniors 65+ get reduced entry (€5) only from October to May—no reductions in summer. Your 2-hour stop gives ample time to explore inside and out. The audio guide activates within the site. Many guests find the small fee worth it for close-up access to this iconic monument.
How do I use the audio guide?
The English audio guide is accessed via a free app—download it using onboard Wi-Fi before reaching Sounion. Bring your charged smartphone and earphones. It auto-plays at key points around the temple with myths, history, and fun facts. Works fully offline after download. Your live guide handles Thorikos and the journey, while the app deepens your temple experience. A seamless blend of guided and self-paced learning.
Where exactly do we watch the sunset?
You’ll have 2 hours of free time at Cape Sounion, with the best sunset views from the cliff edge west of the temple. Your guide points out prime spots before free time begins. The sun sets directly over the Aegean, bathing the marble columns in golden light. Arrive early in your slot to secure a spot. Tripods are welcome. This timing ensures you catch the full spectacle without rushing. One of Greece’s most photographed moments.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children love the myths, open spaces, and dramatic views. Free entry for under 18 (non-EU) or under 25 (EU) makes it family-friendly. The pace is relaxed, with seating on the bus and flat areas at both sites. Thorikos has some uneven ground; Sounion involves light walking. Strollers are manageable but not ideal. The guide engages younger guests with stories of Poseidon and heroes. A fun, educational half-day adventure.
What time do we return to Athens?
You’ll be dropped at Syntagma Square around 1.5 hours after sunset—typically between 7:30 PM and 9:00 PM depending on the season and departure time. The return journey is relaxed with Wi-Fi and commentary. Live updates from your guide. This timing allows dinner in Plaka or a evening stroll. Most guests arrive refreshed and glowing from the experience. A perfectly paced golden-hour escape.
