Sounio and Lake Vouliagmeni Tour

Discover the Highlights of the Sounio and Lake Vouliagmeni Tour

This 6-hour private tour from Athens offers a seamless visit to two of Greece’s most notable natural and archaeological sites. Priced at $541.74 per group (up to 8 people), it includes transport by air-conditioned minivan, bottled water, and a driver to handle all logistics.

The tour is perfect for those who want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport and entry tickets, with the flexibility to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery, historical marvels, and a delicious meal with a splendid sea view. The highlight is the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, built in the 5th century BC, perched 70 meters above the sea, which remains largely intact with 16 of the original 38 columns still standing.

While the tour does not include admission fees—such as the €15 entry to the archaeological site—it offers a well-rounded experience with scenic coastal drives, a visit to Vouliagmeni Lake, and time to appreciate Greece’s natural beauty. This tour suits travelers seeking an efficient, informative, and visually captivating day trip from Athens.

Key Points

• Private 6-hour tour including transportation, bottled water, and driver
• Visit Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon, built in the 5th century BC
• Stop at Vouliagmeni Lake, part of Greece’s NATURA 2000 network
• Price of $541.74 per group (up to 8 people), with flexible scheduling
• Skip the hassle of finding your own way with pre-arranged transport and stops
• Tour includes a relaxing coastal drive with scenic views of the Saronic Gulf and islands

The Iconic Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

The Temple of Poseidon stands at the southernmost tip of Attica, commanding views over the Aegean Sea. Built in 44 B.C., this ancient Greek temple features the classic hexastyle Doric columns—six on the front portico—and originally had 38 columns, of which 16 remain standing today. Traveling here is like stepping back in time, with the temple’s commanding position on a cliff 70 meters above sea level offering spectacular vistas and photo opportunities.

The tour includes a visit to this iconic site, where the sense of history and beauty combine. Visitors can appreciate how the temple was constructed to honor the sea god Poseidon, with the location historically significant for sailors and traders. The setting also provides an excellent backdrop for photos, especially at sunset or sunrise.

Scenic Coastal Drive with Impressive Sea Views

The journey back from Cape Sounion offers an enjoyable scenic drive along the Athens coast. As the minivan passes through Lagonisi, Anavyssos, Legrena, Varkiza, and Vouliagmeni, travelers get glimpses of the sparkling Saronic Gulf and nearby islands.

This drive is a highlight in itself, showcasing Greece’s beautiful coastline and seaside towns. It’s a chance to relax and take in the scenery without having to navigate or plan stops. The route offers several photo opportunities along the way, capturing Greece’s bright blue waters and lush coastlines.

Exploring Vouliagmeni Lake: Nature’s Hidden Treasure

The second stop is at Vouliagmeni Lake, a natural wonder included in Greece’s NATURA 2000 network and designated as a Site of Outstanding Natural Beauty. About 50 centimeters above sea level, the lake is constantly replenished by hot springs, making its waters unique and inviting.

The lake’s current form was created after erosion caused the roof of a cave to collapse, revealing the lake’s beautiful, mineral-rich waters. Visitors can enjoy about an hour exploring this natural thermal lake that offers soothing waters and scenic surroundings. The lake’s presence adds a relaxing element to the tour, with easy access to enjoy its calm, warm waters, although admission fees are not included.

Practical Details: Transport, Timing, and Group Size

The tour departs conveniently from Athens with pickup included, and operates daily from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The air-conditioned minivan provides comfortable transport, perfect for small groups of up to 8 people.

The overall duration is approximately 6 hours, but the actual timing of each stop depends on traffic and the day’s schedule. The admission to the Sounio Archaeological site costs €15 per adult and is not included in the tour price.

Guests should be prepared for a moderate amount of walking at the archaeological site and natural areas. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families with children, as long as children are accompanied by an adult.

Experience and Service Quality

A noteworthy aspect of this tour is its private nature, allowing for a more personalized experience. The driver is recognized as very experienced and knowledgeable, ensuring smooth transportation and informative commentary during the drive.

While a licensed tour guide is available upon request, the tour mainly relies on the driver for guidance. The van is reported to be clean and safe, and the transfer service receives high praise, with at least one review highlighting the perfect transfer experience and recommendation.

Cost and Booking Flexibility

At $541.74 per group, this tour offers an excellent value considering the private transport, scenic stops, and the convenience of a planned itinerary. The tour supports free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers who may need to adjust their plans.

The inclusion of bottled water and transport makes this tour a practical choice for travelers wanting a stress-free day without hidden costs or surprises.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This private tour is ideal for small groups seeking a comfortable, guided experience to explore Greece’s coastal and archaeological treasures. It suits those who appreciate scenic drives, want to visit Cape Sounion without the hassle of organizing tickets or transportation, and enjoy a relaxed visit to Vouliagmeni Lake.

Travelers who enjoy history, nature, and scenic views will find this tour offers a well-balanced combination. It may be less suitable for those seeking an extensive guided archaeological tour or access to guided commentary at the sites, unless requested in advance.

Sounio and Lake Vouliagmeni Tour: An Authentic Greek Day Trip

In just 6 hours, this tour provides a rich experience of Greece’s natural beauty and ancient history. The focus on convenience, comfort, and scenic highlights makes it a popular choice for travelers wanting a memorable yet manageable day excursion from Athens.

The impressive Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion captures the grandeur of Greek architecture and history, while the Vouliagmeni Lake offers a peaceful natural retreat. Combining these stops with a beautiful coastal drive, the tour balances cultural exploration and scenic relaxation.

For those who value a private, hassle-free experience with knowledgeable transport, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Greece’s iconic sights, all within a well-paced, 6-hour window.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation by air-conditioned minivan is included, along with a driver to handle all logistics.

Are admission fees to the archaeological site included?
No, admission to the Sounio Archaeological site costs €15 per adult and is not included in the tour price.

Can I request a licensed guide?
Yes, a licensed tour guide is available upon request, though the tour primarily features commentary from the driver.

What should I bring for Vouliagmeni Lake?
While not explicitly mentioned, visitors should consider bringing swimwear, towels, and sun protection to enjoy the lake’s waters comfortably. The lake’s admission fee is not included in the tour.

How flexible is the schedule?
The tour operates daily from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with the exact timing of stops depending on traffic and other factors. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

Who is this tour best suited for?
This small-group private tour suits travelers wanting hassle-free transport, scenic coastal views, and visits to iconic sites like Cape Sounion and Vouliagmeni Lake. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking comfort and flexibility.