Full Day Private Athens and Cape Sounio Tour

Discover the Full Day Private Athens and Cape Sounio Tour

This full-day private tour, priced at $516.39 per group (up to 4 people), offers a personalized way to explore Athens and the southern coast of Attica. Starting at Syntagma Square and lasting approximately 7 to 9 hours, this experience combines cultural landmarks, scenic drives, and the opportunity for relaxed stops along the way.

The tour’s highlight is a visit to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio, along with key Athens sights like the Ancient Agora, Hellenic Parliament, and Panathenian Stadium. With private transportation in an air-conditioned Mercedes Benz and WiFi onboard, this trip is ideal for those seeking a flexible, comfortable, and informative day with a knowledgeable driver-guide.

A standout feature is the personalized route, where you can decide when to pause, explore, or relax. While admission tickets are not included for some sites, the tour offers a clear, structured plan with options to customize your experience. Booking typically occurs 48 days in advance, indicating high demand for this well-organized, quality trip.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience in a Mercedes Benz vehicle with own driver-guide
• Includes key Athens landmarks like Plaka, the Hellenic Parliament, and Panathenian Stadium
• Scenic coastal drive to Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon
• Flexible stops for photos, relaxing, shopping, or dining, with full control over timing
• Tour duration is approximately 7 to 9 hours, starting at Syntagma Square and ending back at the meeting point
• Admission tickets for sites like the Temple of Poseidon and the Acropolis are not included

The Experience Begins at Syntagma Square

The tour kicks off at Syntagma Square, the heart of Athens, where the driver picks up your group in a well-maintained Mercedes Benz. The vehicle’s air-conditioning and WiFi create a comfortable environment for the day. The driver guide’s excellent English language skills and deep knowledge of Greek history enhance the experience from the start.

From this central spot, the journey along historical paths leads you through Athens’ most revered neighborhoods, including the picturesque Plaka. This area is renowned for its traditional architecture, lively streets, and the Ancient Agora, a site rich with archaeological significance and open for exploration.

Visiting the Iconic Plaka Neighborhood and Ancient Agora

In around one hour, the tour visits Plaka, often called the “Neighborhood of the Gods,” for its charming streets and historical significance. Here, the focus is on architecture, culture, and local life, with plenty of opportunities for photos and leisurely strolling.

Next, the Ancient Agora is nearby, famous for its archeological remains and historical importance in Greek civilization. The tour passes by landmarks like Thiseio and the Temple of Hephaestus, which are key symbols of Athens’ ancient past. The admission is free at this stop, allowing more time to soak in the atmosphere.

Watching the Changing of the Guard at the Hellenic Parliament

A short 15-minute stop at Constitution Square offers the chance to observe the changing of the guards at the Hellenic Parliament. This iconic ceremony is a classic Athens sight, set against the backdrop of the Memorial of the Unknown Soldier. No admission fee applies here, making it a quick but memorable photo opportunity.

Exploring the Panathenian Stadium

The Kallimarmaro, or Panathenian Stadium, is a significant site where the first modern Olympic Games took place in 1896. The tour includes a 45-minute stop here, with the option to enter and walk the historic track for an additional admission fee of €12 per person. The stadium’s architecture and historic weight make it a compelling visit for sports and history enthusiasts alike.

Driving Along the Coast to Cape Sounio

After enjoying Athens’ city sights, the tour proceeds with a scenic coastal drive along Attica’s southern shoreline toward Cape Sounio. The drive offers stunning sea views and a chance to relax in the comfortable private vehicle.

At Cape Sounio, the focus is on the Temple of Poseidon, perched atop a steep rock formation. This scenic and historic site is famous for its dramatic setting overlooking the Aegean Sea. The temple visit lasts around one hour, with admission tickets not included (costing about €8 per person). The location is renowned for its breathtaking views, especially at sunset, making it a popular photography spot.

The Iconic Acropolis and Its Limited Access

The tour includes a two-hour stop at the Acropolis, the most famous archaeological site in Athens. Since the guide is not licensed to walk or provide guided commentary inside the archaeological sites, visitors can explore independently.

Admission to the Acropolis costs around €20 per person, and pre-booking tickets is advisable to avoid lines. The site features iconic structures such as the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Propylaea. While the guide cannot lead the exploration, the site’s impressive architecture and panoramic city views make this stop highly worthwhile.

Flexibility and Personalization

Throughout the tour, the driver-guide emphasizes the ability to stop whenever and relax as desired. Whether it’s taking photographs, enjoying a meal, shopping, or resting by the beach, your group controls the pace.

The private nature of the tour, with only your group participating, ensures a personalized experience tailored to interests and timing. The well-maintained vehicle and English-speaking guide contribute to a smooth and informative journey.

Logistics and Practical Details

The tour departs from Syntagma Square and ends back at the same meeting point. The duration covers travel time between stops, while admission tickets for some sites are not included, so budgeting for these is recommended.

Bottled water is provided, and WiFi on board keeps you connected. The tour is suited for most travelers, as the walks are manageable, but those with mobility concerns should plan accordingly for site exploration.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This private tour is ideal for visitors who value flexibility, comfort, and personalized service. It suits those interested in culture, history, and scenic drives, without the constraints of large group tours.

The tour’s well-planned stops and easy pacing make it suitable for families, couples, or small groups seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed day exploring Athens and Cape Sounio.

Final Thoughts on the Full Day Private Athens and Cape Sounio Tour

This 7 to 9-hour experience offers a wealth of sights and scenic views with the convenience of private transportation and a dedicated guide. The tour’s flexibility and focus on comfort make it a strong choice for those looking to see Athens and Cape Sounio at their own pace.

While admission costs are extra, the overall value lies in the personalized service and careful selection of highlights. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day with the option to customize stops according to their interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi, and bottled water are included. Admission tickets for sites like the Temple of Poseidon and the Acropolis are not included.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the driver-guide allows you to decide when to stop for taking photos, relaxing, shopping, or dining.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, including travel time between stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Syntagma Square and ends back at the same location.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included in the tour price.

How much are the site admission fees?
Admission to the Kallimarmaro is about €12 per person, the Temple of Poseidon is around €8 per person, and the Acropolis costs about €20 per person.

Is this tour suitable for children or mobility-limited guests?
While most stops involve manageable walking, those with mobility issues should plan for site exploration times.

What makes this tour stand out?
The personalized experience, scenic coastal drive, and flexible schedule set this tour apart from larger, more rigid options.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
It is advisable to pre-book tickets for sites like the Acropolis to avoid long waits.

How do I book this tour?
The tour is typically booked 48 days in advance and can be arranged through the provider, Athens Taxi Tours – Michael Sterianos.