Cape Sounion
Cape Sounion, located approximately 70 kilometers southeast of Athens, is renowned for its stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the ancient Temple of Poseidon.
This temple, dating back to the 5th century BCE, is a significant archaeological site and a testament to ancient Greek architecture.
The site offers visitors a chance to explore the temple ruins and enjoy panoramic sea vistas. It’s particularly famous for its breathtaking sunsets, making late afternoon visits especially popular.
For those looking to visit, Cape Sounion is accessible via a scenic drive along the Athens Riviera.
In addition to its historical significance, the area boasts beautiful beaches, making it a favored spot for both history enthusiasts and beachgoers.
Overall, Cape Sounion provides a harmonious blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a must-visit destination for those in the Athens area.
Why go
At the southern tip of Attica, the Temple of Poseidon stands on a cliff 60 metres above the Aegean. It was built around 440 BC, at the time of the Parthenon, and sailors coming home to Athens saw it from far away. Lord Byron was so taken by it that he carved his name on one of the columns – you can still find it.
The best time to visit
Sunset at Sounio is legendary: the columns turn golden and the sun sinks into the sea behind the islands. In summer the site is busy at sunset, so arrive at least an hour before. In spring and autumn the light is just as beautiful and the crowds smaller.
On the way
- The coastal road of the Athenian Riviera passes Glyfada, Vouliagmeni and Varkiza, with beaches and seaside tavernas.
- The ancient theatre of Thorikos, near Lavrio, is one of the oldest theatres in Greece.
- Lavrio, a small port with ferries to Kea and Kythnos, is just 10 km away.
Getting there
Sounio is about 65 km from central Athens – around 1 hour 15 minutes along the coast. With a private transfer or our Sounio tour you can stay for the sunset and still be back in Athens for dinner.
Visiting the Temple of Poseidon
The temple was built in the 5th century BC, in the same years as the Parthenon, on the edge of the cliff where sailors leaving Athens saw it as their last landmark. Many of its white marble Doric columns still stand, and on one of them you can look for the name of Lord Byron, who carved it during his travels in Greece.
Below the temple, the remains of the ancient fortress and the smaller sanctuary of Athena Sounias complete the site. Opening hours change with the season, so check the official ticket website before you go – in summer the site usually stays open until after sunset.
Frequently asked questions
How long do we need at Sounio?
About an hour at the temple is enough for most visitors. A half-day trip from Athens, including the coastal drive, takes 4 to 5 hours; with a swim or dinner by the sea, plan for a little longer.
Can we swim near Cape Sounion?
Yes. There are small beaches in the bay below the cape and along the coast towards Lavrio and Legrena, so you can combine the temple with a swim in summer.
Can you organise a sunset trip?
Yes. We time the pick-up in Athens so you reach the temple before sunset, and the driver waits for you to bring you back to your hotel after dark.
Let us plan it for you
4 Colours Travel is a licensed local travel agency. We arrange private transfers, tours and stays all over Greece – tell us your dates and we will reply within 24 hours.