Athens & Temple of Poseidon: Full-Day Small Group Tour

Discover the Unique Charm of the Athens & Temple of Poseidon Full-Day Tour

This 8-hour small group tour offers a well-balanced mix of iconic Athens sights and breathtaking coastal scenery. Priced at $177 per person, it provides skip-the-line access to the Acropolis and Parthenon, allowing you to avoid long waits at these popular sites. The tour departs from Filellinon 16 in central Athens and is designed for groups of up to 16 participants, ensuring a more personal experience with a professional, English-speaking guide.

What truly sets this tour apart is the combination of cultural exploration and seaside relaxation. You’ll visit Athens’ highlights, explore Plaka Old Town and Monastiraki Square, and then enjoy a scenic drive along the Athenian Riviera. The highlight is witnessing the spectacular sunset at the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion, complemented by stops at Vouliagmeni Lake and a secluded beach during the summer months. While the tour is rich in sights and experiences, it involves some travel time—particularly around the Temple of Poseidon, which may take about two hours for the return trip.

This tour is suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of history, scenic views, and leisurely seaside moments, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive day with plenty of opportunities for photos, shopping, and relaxation.

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Key Points

• Includes skip-the-line tickets for the Acropolis and Parthenon.
• Scenic seaside drive along the Athenian Riviera with stops at Vouliagmeni Lake and a beach (May–October).
• Visits to iconic landmarks: Olympian Zeus Temple, Panathenaic Stadium, and Monastiraki and Plaka old town.
• Unmissable sunset experience at the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion.
• Small group format with up to 16 participants ensures personalized attention.
• Includes bottled water, all fees, and licensed guides, with optional admission at the Temple of Poseidon (additional fee).

Starting Point and Group Size

The tour begins at Filellinon 16, where travelers meet at the designated corner between Fillelinon and Navarchou Nikodimou. The group size is limited to 16 people, which allows for a more engaging and tailored experience compared to larger tours. Transportation is via an air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable even during the warmer months.

Exploring Athens’ Old Town: Plaka and Monastiraki

The tour takes you through Plaka Old Town, known for its charming streets, colorful shops, and local eateries. Visitors can enjoy a photo stop and some shopping here, soaking in the lively atmosphere. Monastiraki Square offers a bustling scene with its flea market, perfect for browsing souvenirs or simply people-watching. These stops give a taste of Athens’ vibrant street life and allow for some independent exploration.

The Iconic Landmarks of Ancient Athens

The Acropolis and Parthenon are highlights of the tour, with a guided one-hour visit that offers insights into their history and architecture. The skip-the-line tickets mean no waiting in long queues, saving valuable time. The Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Panathenaic Stadium are also included, each offering a glimpse into Greece’s ancient and modern Olympian legacy within 20-minute visits.

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Scenic Drive Along the Athenian Riviera

After visiting Athens’ historical sites, the tour heads along the Athenian Riviera for a scenic 45-minute drive to Varkiza. On the way, travelers enjoy panoramic views of the coast, with several photo stops at Vouliagmeni Lake and Cape Sounion. The drive offers an opportunity to appreciate the rugged beauty of Greece’s coastline and the sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea.

Beach Stop and Relaxation (May–October)

From May to October, the tour makes a beach stop at a secluded beach near Varkiza. Here, visitors can swim in the clear waters or relax at a beach bar with refreshing drinks and light snacks. The beach stop lasts about 1.5 hours, perfect for unwinding after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Visiting Vouliagmeni Lake

A 15-minute stop at Vouliagmeni Lake allows for some quick photos and appreciation of this natural thermal lake. Its mineral-rich waters are known for their relaxing qualities, though the tour mainly offers a brief visit rather than a full swim.

Cape Sounion and the Sunset at the Temple of Poseidon

The final main highlight is the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. The tour allocates about 1 hour for the visit, with scenic views and a chance to explore the ancient ruins. The timing aligns with the sunset, providing a magnificent backdrop for photos. The sunset experience is a major draw, offering unforgettable views over the sea, especially as the day draws to a close.

The Return Journey and Practical Considerations

After the sunset, the group begins the return trip to Filellinon 16 in Athens. Travel time back can be around 2 hours, which some reviews note can be longer than expected due to traffic or other factors. The tour does not include meals or drinks, but bottled water is provided during the day. Admission to the Temple of Poseidon costs €5 in low season or €10 in high season, payable on site.

Personalities of the Guides and Tour Pacing

The guides are professional and knowledgeable, with reviews praising their friendly demeanor and clear explanations in easy English. The tour is well-paced, balancing sightseeing, free time, and leisurely drives. Some reviews mention that the program is well organized and neither too rushed nor too slow, though the travel time to the temple can be unexpectedly lengthy.

Accessibility and Suitability

This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and participants should be prepared for some walking, especially at the historical sites and the Temple of Poseidon. Comfortable footwear and sun protection are recommended, particularly during the outdoor stops and at the seaside.

Final Words: A Well-Rounded Day with Scenic and Cultural Highlights

This full-day tour combines Athens’ historical landmarks with a scenic coastal drive and an unbeatable sunset experience at Cape Sounion. It offers skip-the-line access to key sites, ensuring a smooth visit, and the small group setting allows for more personalized interaction with guides.

While the travel time from Athens to Sounion can be longer than anticipated, the opportunity to relax at the beach and enjoy breathtaking views makes this tour particularly appealing. It’s best suited for travelers eager to combine history, scenery, and leisure in one memorable day.

This tour is a solid choice for those wanting an immersive yet relaxed exploration of Athens and its coastal treasures, especially if catching the sunset at the Temple of Poseidon is a top priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour starts at Filellinon 16, and participants meet at the designated corner between Fillelinon and Navarchou Nikodimou.

Are meals included?
Meals and drinks are not included, but bottled water is provided. The beach stop offers the option to purchase food and drinks at the beach bar.

What is the cost of admission to the Temple of Poseidon?
Admission is €5 in low season and €10 in high season per person, payable on-site.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure, and it is not suitable for wheelchair users. Families with children comfortable with outdoor activities and walking should find it manageable.

How long does the trip to the Temple of Poseidon take?
Travel time can be up to two hours for the return journey, which some may find lengthy, especially after a full day of sightseeing.

Can I see the sunset at the Temple of Poseidon?
Yes, the tour specifically schedules the visit to coincide with the sunset, providing spectacular views over the sea.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include Acropolis, Parthenon, Plaka Old Town, Panathenaic Stadium, Olympian Zeus Temple, Vouliagmeni Lake, Varkiza Beach, and the Temple of Poseidon.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride through the day.

How personalized is the experience?
With a maximum group size of 16 participants, the tour offers a more engaging experience with opportunities for questions and discussion.

Is the tour available year-round?
The beach stop is only available between May and October. Other parts of the tour operate year-round, weather permitting.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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