
1 Amazing Day Trip from Athens: Exploring Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon
Drive Along Coastal Greece
In November 2023, our family of three took a one week trip to Greece. We stayed in Athens and rented a car to have long drive trips. One day we went all the way to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon. Here is how it went.
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Arriving in Athens
- Via Ferry or Bus: Athens is the gateway to the Mediterranean, seamlessly connected by sea and road. To compare the most convenient routes and prices for your journey, you can book through Busbud or local ferry providers.
- Via Flight: Land at Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” (ATH), located approximately 40 minutes from the historic city center. To find the best deals on airfare, search and book your flights here.
Essential Travel Resources for Your Greece Trip
- Over-night Stays: To book a hotel, explore the options available here.
- Stay Connected: Stay connected while exploring without worrying about roaming fees. Grab a local eSIM that fits your data needs here:
- We recommend Airalo for a budget-friendly and basic plan. Get your Airalo eSIM here.
- Yesim is our top-pick for unlimited data needs. Get your Yesim eSIM here.
- Going Around:
- Taxis & Private Transfers Secure a reliable, fixed-price ride with professional drivers. Avoid the airport queues by booking in advance. Book your taxi/transfer here.
- Car Rentals Enjoy the freedom of the open road. Compare the best rates from top brands to find your perfect vehicle here.
- Public Transport Travel like a local and save money. Skip the station lines by securing your train and bus tickets here.
Cape Sounion
On the second last day of our time in Greece, we drove from Athens to the very popular Cape Sounion. The drive lasted one hour and it was extremely scenic. We even slowed down to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Aegean Sea visible for a part of our drive. Our aim was to explore the Archaeological Site at Cape Sounion and enjoy some time at the beach.
Temple of Poseidon
The Archaeological Site at Cape Sounion consists of the Temple of Poseidon. The ticket cost 12 Euros and we spent 2 hours at the site. The ruins were stunning and the view of the Aegean Sea made them even more breathtaking. We were in awe of the beauty of the whole area and found it hard to leave the site after spending 2 hours. We also walked around the labeled tour reading about the history of the temple and had lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Pro-tip: To book a guided tour of Cape Sounion and temple of Poseidon, secure your ticket here.
Aegean Sea and Beach
While driving away from the Temple of Poseidon, we stopped at a nearby deserted beach and spent some time there. The sea was extremely captivating and the beach had soft sand without stones making it easy for us to walk barefoot. We spent 30 minutes enjoying the calmness at the beach before driving back to Athens.
Final Remarks
The drive to Cape Sounion was just breathtaking. The temple itself stood out and the views were just breathtaking with the sea in the background. Overall this was a scenic day for all of us. But thats exactly what Greece has to offer. We totally recommend this day-trip to anyone coming to Athens.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the drive from Athens to Cape Sounion?
The drive takes approximately one hour and follows a beautiful coastal route with views of the Aegean Sea.
What is the entrance fee for the Temple of Poseidon?
During our visit in November, the ticket price was 12 Euros. (Note: Prices can vary between winter and summer seasons).
Are there sandy beaches near the Temple of Poseidon?
Yes, there are nearby beaches with soft sand and no stones, perfect for walking barefoot and enjoying the calm water.


















