Sounio Private Day Tour

The significance of Cape Sounion for the city-state of Athens

Cape Sounion, the southernmost tip of Attica, is a significant strategic point, whence the city-state of Athens controlled the sea passage to the Aegean Sea and Piraeus, the central port, as well as the Lavrion peninsula, comprising the rich silver mines thanks to which Athens emerged as a leading power in the 5th century BC.

The fortress and sanctuaries belonged to the deme of Sounion, formed through the state reorganization by Kleisthenes in 510 BC. The deme belonged to the tribe of Leontis and extended in the area between Lavrion, Megala Pefka, Kamariza (Agios Konstantinos) and the cape. The settlement in the fortress probably forms the center of the deme, of which more remains are also known. In the surroundings of the fortress, a settlement is located over the port and a cemetery of the classical period on the shore where the church of Saint Peter is, as well as part of a settlement of roman times west of the church.

Prehistoric habitation is also attested in the area. Graves of the Early Bronze Age period (3rd mil. BC) are reported on the cape.

Visiting Cape Sounio from Athens with a private tour makes your journey very comfortable and enjoyable, no multiple stops unless you wish for. A full-day, small-group tour provides an easy alternative, with air-conditioned minivan travel, which allows you to visit cape’s Temple of Poseidon, admire the ruins and Aegean views. There will also be a lunch and beach break to enjoy the good traditional food and the enormous view of Athens from the Cape Sounio.

Select your preferred departure on booking and, after pickup from your central Athens hotel, set off along the Athens Riviera by air-conditioned minivan.

Pass through Athens’ suburbs of Glyfada and Vouliagmeni, and admire the Saronic Gulf, seaside resorts, and villages as you follow the coastal roads east.

During your outward or return journey, take a break beside the sea. Perhaps enjoy a light meal or drinks (own expense) or lounge or swim at a beach. If you plan to swim, bring your swimming gear.

On arrival, explore the fifth-century Temple of Poseidon perched on the headland. Listen as your guide narrates its history, including how it was dedicated to the god of the sea, Poseidon, and served as a beacon for mariners. (Entry to the Temple of Poseidon is at your own expense.)

Take photos of the panoramas before your tour concludes with a hotel drop-off.

Your trip concludes at the original Athens starting point.

Minimum 1 Person Per Reservation
Maximum 8 Person Per Reservation
Price Per 8 Persons €300,00