Athens Sights & Sounion (Poseidon Temple) – Private Full Day Tour

Discover the Ultimate Private Tour of Athens and Sounion

This full-day private tour offers an engaging way to see Athens’ key sights alongside a scenic journey along the Athenian Riviera. Priced at $545.48 per group, with up to three people, the experience is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, flexible way to explore Greece’s historic capital. The tour lasts about 8 hours, including stops at famous landmarks and breathtaking coastal spots.

What truly sets this experience apart is the customizable itinerary and the private vehicle exclusively for your group. The driver and guide are committed to meeting your needs, offering a personalized touch that enhances the visit. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, WiFi, and bottled water, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout.

While the admission fees for archaeological sites are not included, the flexibility and quality of this tour make it a popular choice. This experience is perfect for those who want to combine cultural exploration with scenic drives and relaxed sightseeing at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private, customizable itinerary for a personalized experience
• Includes major Athens landmarks and the famous Poseidon Temple at Cape Sounion
• 8-hour tour with hotel pick-up and drop-off in Athens
• Scenic drive along the Athenian Riviera with stops at beaches and natural sites
• Expert driver and guide focus on your needs and safety
• Admission fees for archaeological sites not included

Starting with the Acropolis and Ancient Athens Landmarks

The tour begins with a visit to the Acropolis, the heart of Athens’ ancient past. You’ll explore the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Parthenon, and the Erechteion. From this elevated position, a panoramic view of the theater of Dionisos and the Herodion enhances your understanding of Athens’ historical significance. Although admission fees are not included, the experience of walking through these iconic ruins is a highlight.

Next, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch make for striking stops. These ancient structures reflect Athens’ grandeur and are easily accessible in about 20 minutes. The driver ensures a quick and smooth visit, allowing time to appreciate the magnificent columns and archways that mark Athens’ imperial past.

Exploring the Historic Sites in the Heart of Athens

Continuing the tour, visits to Panathenaic Stadium and the Presidential Mansion offer insights into modern and historic Athens. The Panathenaic Stadium, where the 1896 Olympic Games were revived, is a notable site and is free of charge. Watching the change of the guard at the Presidential Mansion provides a glimpse into Greece’s royal traditions.

A climb to Mount Lycabettus at St. George Lycabettus Hill offers breathtaking views of the city, perfect for photos. This scenic overlook is accessible in 20 minutes and provides a panoramic snapshot of Athens’ skyline. Nearby, the National Library of Greece, The Academy of Athens, Old Parliament House, and Syntagma Square form a cluster of historic and governmental buildings, each free to explore.

Visiting the Ancient Agora and the Charming Plaka Neighborhood

The Ancient Agora of Athens is a key archaeological site with Hellenic and Roman sections. This stop lasts about 40 minutes, and admission fees are not included. Visitors can walk through the stoa, see the Temple of Hephaestus, and imagine the public gatherings that once took place here.

The Plaka district marks the end of the Athens sightseeing portion. Its narrow streets, lined with shops and cafes, evoke the spirit of old Athens. With about an hour to explore, visitors can shop, enjoy local treats, or relax at a quaint café before heading back to the vehicle.

Scenic Drive Along the Athenian Riviera

Leaving Athens’ historical core, the tour proceeds along the golden coastal road, Poseidonos Avenue, passing through Alimos, Glyfada, and Voula. The drive itself is a highlight, offering stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and the luxurious seaside resorts.

The first stop along the coast is at Laimos of Vouliagmeni, a luxurious beach with an ideal backdrop for photos. This marvelous spot provides a chance to admire the sea and relax briefly before continuing.

Visiting Lake Vouliagmeni: Nature’s Gem

The Lake Vouliagmeni is an outstanding natural monument formed through geological changes millions of years ago. Its unique surroundings and therapeutic waters make it a notable stop. Visitors can appreciate the natural beauty of the lake in about 20 minutes and enjoy some quiet reflection or photo opportunities.

The Journey to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

The final part of the tour takes travelers via traditional fishing villages like Fokaia and Saronida, culminating at the Cape of Sounion. The Temple of Poseidon, dedicated to the God of the Sea, dominates the landscape here. This archaeological site provides spectacular views of the Aegean, especially during sunset, making it a romantic finale to the day.

Visitors have about 70 minutes at the temple ruins to explore and photograph this iconic location. The admission fee is not included, but the scenic vistas and historic ambiance more than compensate.

Practical Details and Tour Inclusions

This private tour is led by an English-speaking driver/guide who cannot enter archaeological sites, but provides informative commentary and personalized service. The vehicle is air-conditioned and equipped with WiFi and bottled water, ensuring a comfortable experience.

The tour includes hotel and Piraeus port pick-up and drop-off, making logistics easy. Entry fees for sites and licensed tour guides are not included but can be arranged separately. Travelers should be prepared for some walking, especially at the archaeological sites.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Experiences

The main advantage of this tour is the personalized, private nature. With only your group involved, the itinerary can be tailored to your interests and pace. The scenic coastal drive combined with major Athens sights creates a balanced day of history and leisure.

A key strength praised in reviews is the guide’s knowledge and hospitality. The driver, Apostolis, is considered an absolute professional, and the guide’s passionate explanations enhance the experience. Guests appreciate the flexibility and the quality over quantity approach.

However, since admission fees are not included, budget travelers should be aware of additional costs. The 8-hour duration offers a rundown but requires some moderate walking and standing at sites.

Sounion and Athens: An Ideal Combo

This tour perfectly balances Athens’ historical landmarks with a scenic coastal experience. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors or those wanting a customized, intimate tour. The stunning sunset at Cape Sounion is a noteworthy highlight, perfect for romantic moments or photo opportunities.

The private nature ensures a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop. The scenic drive, combined with expert guidance and luxurious comfort, makes this a memorable day in Greece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking at archaeological sites, so it’s best suited for travelers in good health and with moderate mobility.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour allows for easy customization based on your preferences, thanks to the private vehicle and guide.

Are entrance fees included?
No, admission fees for archaeological sites and museums are not included in the price.

What is the best time to visit Sounion to see the sunset?
While the tour lasts about 70 minutes at Sounion, planning to arrive around sunset time offers the most spectacular views.

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
No, it is designed for groups of up to three people, making it a more intimate experience.

What is the tour cost?
The price is $545.48 per group, which covers up to three travelers.

Does the tour include lunch or snacks?
No, food and drinks are not included, but bottled water is provided on board.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve this private Athens and Sounion tour through authorized platforms or directly via JG Athens Tours.

This comprehensive, customizable experience offers a blend of history, scenic beauty, and personalized service—ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet enriching day in Greece.