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Sunset at Cape Sounion

  • Lavrio, Central Greece, Greece

Last updated: 30 March, 2024

Sounion or Sounio (the Sacred Cape of the Athenians according to Homer) lies at the southernmost tip of the Attic peninsula. Marked by the partly-renovated temple of Poseidon set on a steep, 200-ft high precipice, Sounion is evidence that the Ancient Greeks chose the locations of their temples with immaculate taste.

The temple crowns the summit of an ancient fortified settlement, with six-foot walls, erected by the city-state of Athens for strategic purposes. It occupies around ten acres in total; a port was located at the sandy cove to the north of the fortress.

This is the spot where – according to myth – King Aegeas awaited the return of his son Thissias, who had been dispatched to kill the Minotaur. When he saw his ship bearing black sails – his son had forgotten to swap them – he committed suicide by falling into the sea, thus naming the Aegean.

The legend, the temple, plus the unfettered pelagic views all come together in one of Greece’s most renowned sunsets – an experience not to be missed.

Logistics

Price: Free
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

KTEL Buses to Sounion leave from the terminal at Mavromateon St (Alexandras Avenue end), but in winter they only run during weekends and often they leave the suite before the sunset, which defeats the purpose.

The Athens-Sounion ride along the Attica coast is one of the most scenic routes in Greece. Organised tours pick you up from your hotel but tend to take the fast modern highway inland past the international airport. If you go independently, drive also along the coast on the way there and come back the quick way inland. If you want to stay overnight, head for Sounion (there’s good swimming nearby).

Allow at least one hour to see the site itself. You can get an information booklet and a map at the ticket booth.

The archaeological site is open throughout the year and closes just after sunset. Most people watch it from just outside.

When to do it

The site is accessible all year round, seven days a week. It closes just after sunset.

Any time of year will do – in fact a stormy, wintry Cape might be said to be more inspiring – but July and August draw massive crowds at sunset. Winter is absolutely fine for sunsets except that they occur earlier (5pm instead of 8pm).

Who to go with: organised tours

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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

  • Athens

Experience the beauty of Greece with our Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon tour, available in both morning and sunset options. Each tour offers a unique way to see this stunning area, complete with picturesque photo stops like the picturesque Vouliagmeni Lake. The drive itself is a treat, showcasing the sparkling Saronic Gulf and charming suburbs of Athens. The main attraction, the Temple of Poseidon, sits majestically on the cliffs of Cape Sounion, where history and myth come alive. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky and sea are painted with vibrant colors, creating a magical backdrop for the ancient temple. It's a breathtaking sight and perfect for memorable photos. From May to October, both tours include a beach stop for a refreshing swim and a leisurely seaside lunch. Ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a unique day out, this tour is a wonderful way to explore the Greek coastline and its ancient wonders.

Price €56

Min age 0

Rating 4.71 / 5 [2203 ratings]

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  • Athens

Private flexible tour combining the Highlights of Athens with a coastal road trip to the Sounion peninsula & amazing clifftop Temple of Poseidon as you relax along the way in one of our new full extra Mercedes models with free WiFi & bottled water in the company of a highly experienced, knowledgeable & considerate Tour driver. Visit the highlights including the Acropolis, Temple of Zeus, Hadrian's Arch, Olympic Stadium, Parliament & changing of the guards, and set off along the deep blue colours of the Aegean sea to explore the Temple of Poseidon. A Skip-the-line Ticket service is included as well as an option to have lunch by the sea in Sounion as well as an expert Archaeological guide for all groups of 8 or more (groups of 1 to 7 by request). With door to door return transfer to your hotel or cruise ship, this comprehensive and 'go at your own pace' tour aims to provide you with one of the most outstanding experiences of your visit.

Price €262

Min age 0

Rating 4.86 / 5 [671 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Athens

Gaze one of the most majestic sunsets in Greece with a private trip to Cape Sounion. After your private pick up by an executive car or mini van, relax and travel along the scenic Saronic Gulf, all the way from Athens Riviera to the cape and listen to your driver sharing tips and insights. Admire the temple of Poseidon, which sits atop a sheer sea cliff and was a sacred site in the ancient world. Absorb the unique views across the Aegean and take unique photos. After, taste the delightful Greek dishes in a picturesque seaside tavern with great view of the illuminated Temple of Poseidon. As you return, you can enjoy a delicious waffle with ice cream that only locals know. You get to admire stunning Archeological Sites. Admire one of the most amazing sunsets you could ever imagine. 100% personalized tour. No prearranged fixed tour. Taste local cuisine and hear stories about the visited sites. Private English speaking driver sharing tips. Extra stop for ice cream.

Price €180

Min age 1

Rating 4.88 / 5 [380 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Athens

Gaze one of the most majestic views in Greece with a private trip to Cape Sounion. After your private pick up by executive car or mini van, relax and travel along the scenic Saronic Gulf, all the way from Athens Riviera to the cape and listen to your driver sharing tips and insights. Admire the temple of Poseidon, which sits atop a sheer sea cliff and was a sacred site in the ancient world. Tour the Temple of Poseidon, dedicated to the mythological god of the sea and absorb the unique views across the Aegean. After this trip to ancient times, your private driver can recommend nearby places to taste the delightful Greek dishes, or even grab a delicious waffle with ice cream. You get to admire stunning Archeological Sites. 100% personalized tour. No prearranged fixed tour. Absorb the far-reaching views over the Aegean and take unique photos. English speaking driver & local that will share tips and stories. Extra stop for meal or ice cream.

Price €124

Min age 1

Rating 4.96 / 5 [122 ratings]

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  • Athens

Driving along, you will be captivated by the breathtaking Saronic sea on your way to paying tribute to Poseidon, the God of the Sea! Enjoy the coastal road drive past the wonderful beaches of Glyfada, Voula, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza & Anavyssos. Witness the crowning jewel…Cape Sounion dominated by the spectacular Temple of Poseidon. Experience the breathtaking sunset while the late afternoon sun bathes the Temple of Poseidon with a golden glorious glow! Enjoy your evening dinner at the Athens Riviera by the Saronic sea!

Price €149

Min age 0

Rating 4.87 / 5 [40 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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